The overall procedure for a PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography) examination is described below.
The overall procedure for a PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography) examination is described below.
Physician consultation
Your doctor will go over the steps of the process with you, including how the radioactive tracer will be administered and how the scan will be carried out. Together with any current medications you are taking, they will check for any allergies or underlying illnesses that might compromise the scan.
Fasting
You may need to fast for 4-6 hours before the scan, depending on the particular test being done. This is because eating can alter the radioactive tracer's distribution, which can therefore alter the scan's accuracy.
Medication alterations
Before the scan, it may be necessary to make changes to several medications, including insulin, because they may affect how the radioactive tracer is distributed. If any modifications are required, your doctor or the staff at the imaging center will let you know and give you instructions for changing the dosage or schedule of your prescription.
Hydration
Before the scan, it's crucial to hydrate well to help your body flush out the radioactive tracer. Your doctor or the imaging center personnel will encourage you to consume enough water to maintain good hydration.
Avoiding vigorous exercise
As vigorous exercise can influence the radioactive tracer's distribution, it may be best to avoid it for 24 to 48 hours before the scan. If this is required, the staff at the imaging center or your doctor will let you know.
Dress comfortably
Don't wear any jewelry or metal objects while having a CT scan; instead, dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing. Any detachable equipment that can interfere with the scan, such as hearing aids, dentures, or other devices, may also need to be taken out.
Arriving at the imaging facility
You will be required to fill out a questionnaire and sign a consent form when you arrive at the imaging facility.
The radioactive tracer will then be injected into you, either intravenously or orally, and you will be asked to relax for 45 to 60 minutes as it spreads throughout your body.
PET Scan
You will be brought to the PET-CT scanner, which is a sizable doughnut-shaped device, once the tracer has had a chance to disperse.
The scan could last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
Post-scan care
You will be requested to take a brief nap once the scan is finished, often lasting 10 to 15 minutes.
As you will be slightly radioactive after the scan, you could also be told to stay away from people near you for a few hours. Your inquiries will be addressed by the imaging center personnel, who will also provide you with any instructions that are required.
Precise Diagnosis for Better Treatment Outcomes - PET CT Scan.
